Small Swimming Pools Designs and Ideas for Small Backyards and Small Spaces

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Deck Chairs in a Swimming Pool
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If you're lucky enough to have a small backyard or a tiny patio, you can still enjoy the luxury of a swimming pool. Compact pools, also known as plunge pools, can be a perfect solution for small spaces.

These pools are typically smaller than traditional pools, measuring around 8-10 feet deep and 10-15 feet long. They're designed to be space-efficient and can be installed in areas as small as 100 square feet.

You can choose from a variety of compact pool designs, including above-ground pools, in-ground pools, and even inflatable pools.

Types of Fiberglass Pools

Fiberglass pools are a popular choice for small backyards due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.

They can be installed quickly, saving you time and minimizing disruption caused by construction activities.

Fiberglass pools come in compact designs that add beauty and elegance to any backyard space.

These compact designs can be made more visually appealing with water features, lounge seating, and landscaping appointments that suit your style and lifestyle.

Their pre-manufactured design means they can be delivered and installed in one piece, eliminating the need for lengthy construction processes.

On a similar theme: Fiberglass Swiming Pools

Backyard Pools

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You can fit a small inground pool in a yard as small as 1,200 square feet.

For a small yard, consider a pool size like 9' x 16', 10' x 20', or 12' x 25'. These dimensions can nestle comfortably into a smaller backyard.

Leisure Pools offers a range of small fiberglass pool designs that can make a huge statement in a tight space.

Our Backyard

Our backyard is a great place to relax and unwind, and a small pool can be a fantastic addition. You can fit a small pool in a yard as small as 1,200 square feet, which is a surprise to many people.

There are many design options available for small pools, including the Courtyard Roman and the Tuscany, which are both great for small backyards. They come in different sizes and shapes to fit your space.

A small pool can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank. They require less chlorine and energy to maintain, making them a healthier option for the environment.

Credit: youtube.com, The MOST EPIC Pools In Family Homes! | Ultimate Pools | HGTV

You can fit a small pool in a corner of your yard or even between two walls, like a plunge pool. This can be a great option for small yards with limited space.

Some popular shapes for small pools include the kidney-shaped pool, which can provide more decking space for lounge chairs and patio furniture. However, the right shape for you will depend on your yard and your needs.

A small pool can be a great investment for your backyard, providing a fun and relaxing space for you and your family to enjoy.

Tanning Ledge or Product with Included Ledge

A tanning ledge is a must-have for anyone who wants to relax in their pool on a hot summer day.

You can often add a tanning ledge to the side of your pool if it's not already built-in.

Many fiberglass pool models, like River Pools' C Series and I Series freeform models, have built-in tanning ledges.

These ledges provide ample space for pool furniture, water features, and kids to play.

The rectangular D Series models, L36, and the three sizes of the M Series also have tons of tanning ledge area.

Having a built-in tanning ledge can make a big difference in your pool experience.

Seating in the Area

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A small pool can feel like a balcony with a small square pool as the focal point, making it feel like a cozy little space.

Adding a tanning ledge is a great idea, as it provides the perfect spot for relaxing in the pool on a hot summer day.

Many River Pools fiberglass pool models have built-in tanning ledges, including the C Series and I Series freeform models.

A tanning ledge is also known as a tanning shelf or Baja shelf, and it's a must-have for anyone who wants pool furniture, water features, and space to rest or for the kiddos to play.

You can add a tanning ledge to the side of your pool if it's not already built-in, giving you more options for relaxation and fun.

Adding lounge chairs and seating areas to your pool patio is a no-brainer for when folks just want to keep dry, kick back, and take it easy.

The D Series models have tons of tanning ledge area, as does the L36, and the three sizes of the M Series, making them great options for those who want to lounge around the pool.

Pool Features

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Small swimming pools often come with a variety of features that enhance their functionality and aesthetic appeal.

A compact size of 10x20 feet is common for small pools, allowing for a cozy and intimate swimming experience.

These pools typically have a depth of 3-4 feet, making them perfect for lounging and playing, but not ideal for serious swimming.

They often feature a built-in hot tub or spa area for relaxation and rejuvenation.

A small pool's small size also means it can be installed in a relatively small backyard, making it a great option for urban dwellers or those with limited space.

Some small pools even have a built-in water feature, such as a waterfall or fountain, to create a soothing and calming ambiance.

Plunge

Plunge pools are a fantastic option for small yards, and for good reason. They're perfect for beating the summer heat and enjoying the cool waters of a swimming pool.

Most plunge pools range in depth from 4 to 8 feet, depending on factors like soil composition, property design, and personal preference. You can choose a depth that suits your needs, whether it's waist-deep water or something deeper for aquatic therapy or exercise.

Credit: youtube.com, OutBack Pool Tour - Perfect Plunge Pool

One helpful way to determine the right depth for your plunge pool is to visualize yourself standing in waist-deep water. For most people, this translates to a depth between 3.5 to 4 feet, depending on your height.

Plunge pools are great for water aerobics and water jogging, and you can even install a Swim Jet System to make it more enjoyable. They also have the beauty and quality of larger pools, making them a stunning addition to any small backyard.

Here are some plunge pool options to consider:

  • The Fiji Plunge: Our smallest fiberglass pool, perfect for compact spaces at 9'6" in length.
  • The Palladium Plunge: Available in two size options, 16' and 20', with ample seating and a flat-bottom design.

If you're looking for a deeper pool, consider opting for a 48-inch wall system instead of the typical 42-inch wall. This can make a big difference for adults who want to cool down without bending or relaxing on their knees.

Ultimately, the perfect plunge pool for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Be sure to speak with a Latham independent builder to determine the perfect pool depth and design for your small yard.

A Bubbler

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A bubbler can add a lot of relaxation to your backyard pool.

Each bubbler can cost between $450 to $700 on average.

Adding a bubbler to your pool can create a serene outdoor retreat, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Shallow areas of the pool, like tanning ledges, are ideal spots for a bubbler installation.

The soothing sound of a bubbler can be especially entertaining for kids, keeping them engaged for hours on end.

Lap

A lap pool is a great option if you're looking for a pool that's perfect for exercise. A 24′ by 12′ lap pool offers plenty of room to swim laps without exceeding 300 square feet.

Lap pools tend to be relatively narrow, with our fiberglass offerings being 12′ wide. This makes them a great choice for small backyards.

If you want a pool for exercise purposes, a lap pool is a great design, especially if you don’t want all the extra bells and whistles you get with a swim spa.

Here are some popular lap pool options to consider:

  • Fiberglass: Sirius Model
  • Vinyl Liner: Rectangle Model

8. A Spa

Credit: youtube.com, 8-SEATER SPA | READY FOR COMMISSIONING AND BASIC POOL MAINTENANCE TRAINING! / Swimming Pool Republic

Adding a spa to your backyard can be a great way to create a relaxing oasis. You can build a small inground pool with a spa for year-round enjoyment at home.

If you already have a pool, you can always add a spa next to it and create a spillway between the two. River Pools offers three spa add-ons that you can check out.

Building a spa into your pool's design can be a fantastic way to make your pool a more integral part of your home.

Pool Shapes and Sizes

If you're looking for a small backyard pool, you have plenty of options to choose from. Leisure Pools offers the Courtyard Roman, a compact pool that's perfect for tight spaces, measuring under 20' in length.

The Tuscany is another great option, with its freeform shape that can adapt to any theme you want to create with your swimming pool area. It's particularly versatile for corner sites where other shapes might not fit.

Credit: youtube.com, 100 Modern Small Pool Ideas on a Budget Design for Small Backyards in 2024

You can fit a pool in a small backyard, even as little as 1,200 square feet. Innovative technology has made it possible to install pools in smaller spaces, and there are more design options than ever before to choose from.

Some common smaller pool sizes and dimensions include 9' x 16', 10' x 20', 12' x 25', and 14' x 48'. Be sure to measure your yard carefully, taking into account the area you may want to reserve for decking or other features.

For a plunge pool, a common size is 10 feet by 16 feet (160 square feet), like the best-selling fiberglass Milan. Vinyl pools come in a range of size options, making most yards suitable for a vinyl spool or plunge pool.

Here are some common smaller pool dimensions to consider:

Ultimately, the best pool shape and size for your small backyard will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Inground Pool Ideas

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You can upgrade your small inground pool without breaking the bank by adding budget-friendly features like the seven awesome things mentioned earlier.

Limited space doesn't have to limit your design options for a small inground pool.

Classic and modern styles are available for small inground pools, including cocktail pools, freeform pools, and lap pools.

If you want to swim laps, a lap pool might be the best style for you.

Adding features like a cocktail pool or freeform pool can give your small inground pool a unique look without requiring a lot of space.

A cocktail pool is a great option if you want a pool that's both functional and visually appealing.

Freeform pools can be designed to fit any shape or size of your small backyard, making them a versatile option.

Tom Tate

Lead Writer

Tom Tate is a seasoned writer and editor, with years of experience creating compelling content for online audiences. He has a talent for distilling complex topics into clear and concise language that engages readers on a deep level. In addition to his writing skills, Tom is also an expert in digital marketing and web design.

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